Annual training

What Driver CPC training involves and how to find a training centre.

As part of the Driver CPC qualification, both existing and new professional drivers of buses and trucks must undergo 35 hours of specialised training every five years (42 hours if maintaining dual qualification – i.e. truck and bus). Training for these 5 years cycles is on a one day per year basis (minimum of 7 hours each day) – if maintaining a dual qualification 2 training modules are to be competed in one year.

A compulsory periodic retraining course must be of a duration of at least 35 hours every 5 years and be taken in 7 hour tranches per year for each of the 5 year period

Why train?

Improved driving skills save on the costs of vehicle repair and loss of trade. Research has shown that by driving safely and carefully drivers can save an average of 40% in gearbox repairs and 60% in safety-related faults.

Greener driving

Studies suggest that good driving can deliver a 12% saving on fuel costs.Professional benefits

This new training requirement fundamentally changes how professional drivers acquire and retain their qualifications. Driver CPC will change the perception that to become a bus or truck driver you just need to pass a test. Rather, it will be seen as a profession that requires ongoing training and skill development.

Course content

There are six training modules in total, each lasting seven hours, with additional reading material to cover specific areas.

Modules:

Control of the vehicle and eco-driving techniques

Minimising risks and managing emergencies in the transport industry

Health and safety for the professional driver

Role of the professional driver in the transport industry

The professional truck driver

The professional bus driver

Driver CPC training centres

RSA-approved trainers provide training in excess of 400 centres throughout Ireland. As well as giving drivers a wide choice of locations, it helps keep standards high and facilitates a competitive marketplace.

The RSA monitors training standards of all trainers to ensure a high standard. To be approved by the RSA, training centres must provide evidence of quality standards in relation to: